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'Leave it on show & it could go' - reminder to motorists

'Leave it on show & it could go!' is the latest message from police as they continue to crackdown on car break-ins.

The message is part of Operation Soundwave, a Northumbria Police campaign aimed at turning down the volume on crimes such as theft. The campaign includes ensuring people have crime prevention advice to keep suspected thieves at bay.

And police are reminding people to take a few crime prevention steps and help stop their vehicle being targeted.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mick Hall, of Sunderland City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "There are incidents where cars have broken into that could have been completely avoided if the owner had taken a few crime prevention measures. We want to reinforce the message of how important it is as it could stop them from being a victim of crime.

"Thieves will target vehicles that are unlocked or where valuables have been left on display, they're opportunist and take advantage of poor security.

"We don't want people to be a victim of crime and continually target suspected offenders. There are steps people can take to help prevent their vehicle from being targeted and we would urge people to heed this advice.

"Remove valuables before leaving and locking your car and if possible try and park in a well lit area or secure 'parkmark' carpark.

"This advice should apply every time the vehicle is left unattended, even if only for a few moments and keys should never be left in the ignition of an unattended vehicle."